Checking automatic transmission fluid (if equipped)

Refer to your scheduled maintenance information for scheduled
intervals for fluid checks and changes. Your transmission does not
consume fluid. However, the fluid level should be checked if the
transmission is not working properly, i.e., if the transmission slips or
shifts slowly or if you notice some sign of fluid leakage.

Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an
accurate fluid check, drive the vehicle until it is warmed up
(approximately 20 miles [30 km]). If your vehicle has been operated
for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic during hot
weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for
about 30 minutes to allow fluid to cool before checking.

1. Drive the vehicle 20 miles (30 km) or until it reaches normal operating
temperature.

2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.

3. With the parking brake engaged and your foot on the brake pedal,
start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear
ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.

4. Latch the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running.

5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag. If
necessary, refer to Identifying components in the engine compartment
in this chapter for the location of the dipstick.

6. Install the dipstick making sure it is fully seated in the filler tube.

7. Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluid level. The fluid should be in
the operating range for normal operating temperature.

Low fluid level

Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid
level is at the bottom of the dipstick
and the outside temperatures are
above 50°F (10°C).

Correct fluid level

The transmission fluid should be checked at normal operating
temperatures 185°F-200°F (85°C-93°C) on a level surface. The normal
operating temperature can be reached after approximately 20 miles
(30 km) of driving.

The transmission fluid should be in
the zone, identified by the arrow in
this figure, if at normal operating
temperature 185°F-200°F
(85°C-93°C).

High fluid level

Fluid levels above the zone,
identified by the arrows in this
figure, may result in transmission
failure. An overfill condition of
transmission fluid may cause shift
and/or engagement concerns and/or possible damage.

High fluid levels can be caused by an overheating condition.

Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels

Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used. The type of
fluid used is normally indicated on the dipstick blade. Refer to
Maintenance product specifications and capacities in this chapter

Use of a non-approved automatic transmission fluid may cause
internal transmission component damage.

If necessary, add fluid in 1/2 pint (250 ml) increments through the filler
tube until the level is correct.

If an overfill occurs, excess fluid
should be removed by an authorized
dealer.

Do not use supplemental transmission fluid additives, treatments or
cleaning agents. The use of these materials may affect transmission
operation and result in damage to internal transmission components.

See also:

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